Cleveland Browns: 3 injured prospects worth the risk in 2019 NFL Draft

Before the Browns signed Sheldon Richardson and traded for Odell Beckham, Jr. the most popular pick for them at No. 17 was Mississippi State defensive tackle Jeffery Simmons. Then they landed Richardson who will start at defensive tackle and traded their first pick to the New York Giants in exchange for OBJ.

Things have changed for Simmons as well though, as he’s expected to be on the board well beyond the 17th pick now. That’s because the big defensive tackle tore his ACL while training for the Scouting Combine and his rookie season is now in jeopardy.

Even so, he’s one of the best prospects at his position and has All-Pro potential according to Lance Zierlein of NFL.com.

"“Impressive physical specimen offering rare combination of strength and athleticism for future dominance in a variety of defensive schemes. Simmons involvement in a fight between two women in 2016 will surely be a cause for concern, but his avoidance of trouble while at college should help his cause. His on-field issues are self-created and largely due to a lack of instincts, but the physical tools and immense upside outweigh those concerns. Simmons has All-Pro potential and should become an early starter and star.” — Zierlein, NFL.com"

Again, he makes sense for the Browns because they can be patient with him. Should Simmons be there at No. 49 they could get a top-20 player who won’t be needed on the field right away.

When he does get healthy and they throw him into the mix, their defensive line suddenly looks nearly unstoppable.